Tips, tricks and tails from the pet care specialists at Morris Animal Inn

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Top 10 Dog Facts

Did you know that a dog's temperature ranges from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit? Or that 62% of households in the U.S. have dogs? Or that the Newfoundland breed has a water resistant coat and webbed feet?!

There is so much we don't know about our dogs, and we are learning interesting things about them every day. Here's a list of our top ten dog facts that are sure to teach you something new about your fascinating furry friends!

1. There were three dogs that survived the historical sinking of the Titanic. The puppy passengers were from 1st class cabins, and included 2 Pomeranians and 1 Pekingese.

2. There's a rumor that Paul McCartney recorded an ultrasonic whistle at the end of the Beatles song "A day in the life". This was only audible to dogs, and was a shout out to Paul's Shetland Sheepdog.

3. Dalmatians are not born with the classic black spots that they are so well known for. As puppies, Dalmatians are pure white. They develop their spots as they grow older.

4. Dogs have the same type of rapid eye movement (REM) as humans. During this REM stage dogs can dream, just like us! Signs that your pet is dreaming include twitching and paw movements.

5. Dogs can see in the dark, due to a special membrane in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum.

6. According to a survey done, 72% of dog owners think that their dogs can sense when stormy weather is on its way.

7. Do you share your side of the bed with your pup? Well, you're not alone! 45% of dogs sleep in their owners bed.

8. A dog's sense of smell is 10,000 - 100,000 times more acute than humans. Maybe that's why they're first to the table when dinner is ready.

9. After going to the bathroom, dogs kick dirt up because they are using scent glands on their paws to further mark their territory.

10. There's a reason dogs curl up in a ball when they sleep. Due to an age-old instinct, they curl up to keep themselves warm and to protect their abdomen and vital organs from predators. Plus, its adorable!

For the full list, check out 25 Cool Dog Facts. Do you know any surprising facts about man's best friend? Comment and share with us!